The service, to mark the inauguration of the University of Surrey Roehampton as part of the University of Surrey, attracted an audience of 1,800.

At both the beginning and end of the ceremony about 200 staff from both institutions processed in full academic robes before an audience of students and special guests. These included eight mayors from south-west London and Surrey, top academics from the UK and the United States, and senior members of the Anglican, Catholic and Methodist churches.

During the ceremony, the University of Surrey’s vice-chancellor, Prof Patrick Dowling, welcomed the integration of the two universities.

"The extension of the University of Surrey’s royal charter, giving us the power to federate with other institutions, is a unique development in higher education," he said. "And I look forward to the development of many joint ventures involving, where appropriate, other institutions associated with the University of Surrey."

Roehampton’s rector and chief executive, Dr Bernadette Porter, said: "This service marks the start of a new era for Roehampton and I look forward to leading it into an exciting new future."